By Doss Southey (OLH Tutor BA HED):

‘No mountain is unclimbable’ and ‘Don’t let your background dictate what your future will be.’ 

These are just two pieces of advice that Taiwo Ojo shares with his students at the Overstrand Learning Hub.

As someone who has made it this far (and as you will see, it’s very far) by following his own philosophy, Taiwo is an absolute inspiration to the students.

Taiwo, who recently obtained his PhD in Space Physics from Rhodes University and is currently a researcher at SANSA in Hermanus, is living proof that success is possible, in spite of your background, as long as you are prepared to apply yourself, make sacrifices, and above all work hard.

The emphasis is on ‘work hard’.

So how did this young man who came from a humble background in Nigeria, his father was a pastor and his mother a trader (both passed away when he was very young), end up with a PhD in Space Physics at the age of 34?

Fortunately for Taiwo, he crossed paths with an inspirational teacher in primary school. It was this teacher who sparked his interest in maths and physics. He obviously saw the potential in Taiwo and took him under his wing. 

He engaged Taiwo in interesting conversations around maths and physics and their relevance in the world. He also encouraged him to extend his knowledge by reading widely and insisted that he participate in as many science competitions as possible. He was a tough taskmaster; the word ‘relaxing’ was not part of his vocabulary.

After completing his four-year undergraduate degree in technology, Taiwo went on to do a year’s industrial training at a broadcasting station. Here he became fascinated with the ionosphere, which plays a role in our everyday communication and navigation systems as radio and GPS signals travel through this layer. This inspired him to study further and to become the first scientist in his family. Ironically, it was his family who tried to dissuade him from pursuing a career in science because it was seen as ‘too difficult’.

Everywhere Taiwo has lived, he has tried to find ways to add value to the community. Hermanus is no exception. He has been assisting students at the Hub since its inception. 

This year his focus is on computer literacy, covering the basic skills needed to navigate a computer and access the internet - essential skills for students studying online. He understands that mastering a computer can be a daunting task, especially for some of the more mature students.  

He is acutely aware that everyone learns differently and he feels that it is up to him as a tutor to find the best method for his students to learn effectively.

It comes as no surprise that Taiwo plans to study further and has applied to a number of overseas universities to do postdoctoral research. Until these plans come to fruition, he will continue mentoring the students at the Hub. 

His wish is to inspire them to take responsibility for their lives, to adopt a more solution-driven approach to their problems, and to make the most of the opportunity afforded them at the Hub to further their education. This, as he knows from experience, will lay the foundation for a better future.